When the Dobosenski family toes the start line Saturday at the Fitger`s 5K, they`ll be continuing a yearlong 21st birthday celebration for Kaleb Dobosenski.

Only Kaleb won`t be part of it.

Kaleb passed away unexpectedly in August 2023 at the age of 18. Those closest to him say he was kind, funny, and sure to make others feel included. He was an avid runner, participating on the cross country and track and field teams at Proctor High School. Running seemed like the perfect way to honor his memory.

“He wasn’t a competitive guy, he just loved the active part," said his brother, Ian. "He had a saying, `Every race needs mediocre runners.`"

So, the family is following in his footsteps. "He`s turning 21 this year," said his mom, Jody. "His birthday is 5/5, so we decided to run five races together this year for Kaleb."

The next of those five races comes Saturday at the Fitger`s 5K, with Kaleb on the minds and hearts of his family every step of the way.

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